The Moroccan national football team secured its place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup after defeating Haiti 4–2 on Wednesday at Atlanta Stadium in the third and final matchday of Group C.
The match got off to a difficult start for the Atlas Lions. In the 10th minute, Haiti took the lead following an own goal by Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou. Despite this setback, Mohamed Ouahbi’s men continued to press forward and were rewarded when Achraf Hakimi scored the equalizer in the 39th minute.
However, Haiti regained the lead just before halftime through Wilson Isidor in the 43rd minute. Morocco responded immediately. In first-half stoppage time, Ismaël Saibari brought the teams level again (45+1), allowing Morocco to head into the break with renewed confidence.
After the restart, the Atlas Lions increased their dominance and launched numerous attacks. Their persistence finally paid off in the 78th minute when substitute Soufiane Rahimi put Morocco ahead.
As Haiti pushed for an equalizer, young Yassine Gessime sealed Morocco’s victory by scoring the fourth goal in the 89th minute.
Thanks to this win, Morocco finishes second in Group C with the same number of points as Brazil, who top the group on goal difference after their 3–0 victory over Scotland.
The Atlas Lions will face the winner of Group F in the Round of 16 next Monday at Monterrey Stadium in Mexico, aiming to continue their journey in the 2026 World Cup.
